FRANKIE POULLAIN: I WAS SACKED

Since Poullain’s departure from the group on March 23 neither side has discussed specifics. However, the bassist has now confirmed to NME.COM that he was in fact sacked.

“Against my wishes I have been forced out of the group,” he explained. “At The Darkness HQ, where Justin and his partner (The Darkness manager, Sue Whitehouse) reside, I have gradually been frozen out over a long period of time. The reason for this is not yet clear – certainly nothing to do with Justin’s solo album which I think is a great idea. In any case it’s inevitable the truth will come out in the end.”

The bassist, who vowed to return with his own project, added that work on The Darkness’ new album had been progressing well.

“On a more positive note, the second album is incredible,” he explained. “Co-written by Justin, Dan and myself, I’m convinced it is destined to be a huge success.”

Poullain also expressed his thanks to fans of the band for their recent support.

“I’d like to thank all The Darkness fans from the bottom of my heart for the staggering amount of support and goodwill they have given me during both the band’s five year adventure and, perhaps more importantly, in the last two weeks, which I have found pretty difficult,” he said. “They’ve given me the life I’ve always dreamed of, I am so grateful and I’ll never forget them – I’ll be back.”